The National Theatre has released the first production images for its highly anticipated new staging of John Millington Synge’s The Playboy of the Western World, featuring a star-studded Irish cast including Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton), Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment), and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls). The play, a classic story of youth and self-discovery, is set to open its press night tonight, Thursday, December 11, 2025, in the Lyttelton theatre.
This fresh production is directed by Caitríona McLaughlin, the Artistic Director of the Abbey Theatre (The National Theatre of Ireland). The plot centers on Pegeen Flaherty, whose ordinary life running a pub is dramatically upturned by the arrival of a stranger, Christy Mahon. Christy claims to have murdered his own father, and instead of being scorned, he is instantly embraced as a local hero, winning hearts and settling into village life. However, Christy’s newfound status and the adoration he receives are threatened when a second, unexpected figure arrives on the scene.
The production boasts a substantial cast, with Nicola Coughlan taking on the role of Pegeen Mike, Éanna Hardwicke as the celebrated murderer Christy Mahon, and Siobhán McSweeney playing the sharp-witted Widow Quin. They are joined by Marty Breen, Declan Conlon, Lorcan Cranitch, Megan Cusack, Naoise Dunbar, Matthew Forrest, Sallay Garnett, Fionnuala Gygax, and Marty Rea.
The creative team includes set and costume designer Katie Davenport, composer Anna Mullarkey, and sound designer Adrienne Quartly. The Playboy of the Western World is playing in the Lyttelton theatre until February 28, 2026. Tickets are available now from the National Theatre website, with prices starting from £20.
